The Swedish Defence Ministry follows Lithuania, Germany and the Netherlands for Leopard 2 A8 MBTs.

Sweden has agreed a deal worth SEK22 billion (USD1.97 billion) to procure 44 Leopard 2 A8 main battle tanks (MBTs) from German-French manufacturer KNDS, the Swedish Defence Ministry confirmed to DSEI on 9 January. 

KNDS will also upgrade 66 of Sweden’s existing Leopard tanks. Deliveries are set to begin in 2028 and conclude in 2031. 

“The deteriorating security situation means that we are now undertaking the largest defence build-up since the 1950s, and this investment in tanks and combat vehicles is a crucial part of it,” said Swedish Minister of Defence Pål Jonson on 9 January. 

Sweden’s Defence Ministry first showcased the Leopard tanks under purchase in a post on X on 9 January. This deal follows Sweden’s procurement of 18 new Leopard 2A5 tank simulators from KNDS for crew training last January. 

Both deals are part of the Swedish government’s commitment to “build and equip four fully operational brigades by 2030” within the 2025-2030 defence proposition, a Swedish Defence Ministry official told DSEI. 

“Many of Sweden’s current tanks and combat vehicles require upgrades to remain effective against modern threats”, the official added. “This ensures they meet modern standards in firepower, protection, and digital integration.”